In designating a third party manager, select one that is registered with the Better Business Bureau and that their fees are nominal, not based on the amount of your debt.
Debt management will now study a plan of action on how your credit maybe resolved.
Step 1 – Make a list of all your debts, including car loans and home mortgage; then total the whole amount.
Step 2 – Deduct this from your monthly funds set aside for debt payments.
You will now have a clear picture of your finances which will look bad for it will surely be a zero balance or negative on your part. It is now the third party’s task to find the best option to settle the issue.
Here are some possible methods to settle your debts:
* Debt Consolidation. This is actually their best recommendation. You will add your total liabilities. The sum of your debt, computed with interest, is what you will pay monthly to the consolidated company for a 5-year period. The advantage is that you are relieved of facing the collectors and you have only one creditor to deal with. The disadvantages are: the length of liquidating your debt for 5 years makes the monthly interest really exorbitant; any negative effect on your credit cannot be corrected until the end of the program; and the company might not be reliable in fulfilling the provisions you have agreed upon.
*Debt Settlement. The agreement is between you directly with your creditors. Many credit companies are willing to negotiate allowing 40% to 50% of your balance as full payment. The advantage is your peace of mind from being release of your liabilities. The disadvantage is often the immoral standard of some companies demanding ask for high fees or commissions. It will take from 2 – 3 years before you can rebuild your credit line.
*Personal loan. You apply directly from the bank for a loan to pay your credit; this loan is given on the basis of your credit personal history and ability to pay from your personal income. Repayment is by monthly installments for a designated period. The advantages are: no collateral or guarantor needed, no specification of the purpose for the loan; and interest much lower than borrowing from your credit card. The disadvantage is that approval is based on certain criteria, if you do not match these, your loan is disapproved.
Another option is declaring a bankruptcy; however, this is not included in a debt management plan.
Making a budget is the best blueprint in monetary management, coupled with a strong commitment, to follow through at all times. It only takes self control and discipline to avoid getting into all sorts of financial complications.
By: Roger Mayne
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